Student Recital, Intro: BEETHOVEN Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13, “Pathétique”

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LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN Sonata No. 8 in C minor, Op. 13, “Pathétique”
Janice Carissa, piano

Performed on Monday, November 16, 2015
Field Concert Hall, Curtis Institute of Music, Philadelphia

In celebration of Ludwig van Beethoven’s 250th birthday this year, it is fitting to open this week with a piece as expansive and brilliant as its composer. Beethoven rose to fame as a performer during the 1790s by making waves with his powerful display of dynamic range on the keyboard.  It was at this time that he composed most of his 32 piano sonatas, which are marked by a mastery of dynamic contrast and close attention to phrasing and tempo. 

This sonata came to be called the “Pathétique” due to its passionate nature, which Beethoven conveys with extreme dynamics, pitch range, and virtuosic stylings. He sets the stage with slow, heavy chords at the outset, before taking the listener through a journey of emotions. The drama of the outer two movements is briefly interrupted by the sweet Adagio cantabile, famous for its opening melody. In these twenty minutes, Beethoven peels back the layers of his heart, exposing its depths and range—from deep tragedy to unrivaled beauty.
—Hannah Horine

Watch the full performance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w--SfVE2A3c

#CurtisIsHere #Beethoven250